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Clinical overview

• Restless legs syndrome is the uncomfortable urge to move the legs that tends to get worse at rest, worse in the evening, and at least partly better with movement. Patients often describe it as a sleep problem, but the key experience is the sensory-motor discomfort that makes resting and falling asleep hard.
• Timing matters: Symptoms classically worsen in the evening or at night, which helps separate RLS from many other causes of leg discomfort.
• Movement helps: Temporary relief with walking, stretching, or movement is a strong clue.
• Medical review: Iron deficiency, pregnancy, renal disease, neuropathy, and medication effects all deserve attention in the workup.

Related Guides

• Restless Legs Syndrome DSM Criteria Guide
• Restless Legs Syndrome Scales and Assessment Tools
• Restless Legs Syndrome Treatments and Medications
• When to Seek Professional Help for Restless Legs Syndrome